Top 10 Korean Restaurants Loved by Japanese Tourists

Are you a Japanese traveler planning your next foodie adventure in Korea? Look no further! We've compiled a list of the most popular Korean restaurants among Japanese visitors, updated for 2025. From traditional favorites to trendy hotspots, these eateries offer a taste of authentic Korean cuisine that will satisfy your palate and create unforgettable memories.

1. Myeongdong Kyoja - The Kalguksu Specialist

Located in the heart of Seoul's shopping district, Myeongdong Kyoja has been a long-time favorite among Japanese tourists. Their signature dish, kalguksu (hand-cut noodle soup), features chewy noodles in a rich, flavorful broth. Don't miss their delicious mandu (dumplings) as a side dish!

Address: 29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Must-try: Kalguksu, Mandu

2. Jinokwha Halmae Original Dakhanmari - Healthy Chicken Soup

Japanese visitors, especially women, love this restaurant for its collagen-rich chicken soup. The tender chicken and clear broth make for a comforting and healthy meal. Add some noodles or rice cakes to your soup for extra satisfaction!

Address: 18 Jongno 40ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Must-try: Dakhanmari (whole chicken soup)

3. Ewha Womans University Street Odeng Restaurant - Nostalgic Street Food

Experience the charm of Korean street food at this retro-style eatery. The assorted odeng (fish cakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) are particularly popular among Japanese tourists looking for a taste of nostalgia.

Address: 52-15 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Must-try: Assorted odeng, Tteokbokki

4. Gwangjang Market Bindaetteok - Traditional Market Flavors

No trip to Korea is complete without visiting a traditional market. At Gwangjang Market, head to the famous bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) stalls. Japanese tourists love the crispy texture and savory flavor, especially when paired with makgeolli (rice wine).

Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Must-try: Bindaetteok, Makgeolli

5. Eulji-ro Nogari Alley - Korean-style Izakaya Experience

For a taste of Korean drinking culture, visit Nogari Alley in Eulji-ro. Japanese visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere and the chance to try nogari (dried pollack) and other Korean bar snacks. It's a great way to experience Korea's unique "pocha" (outdoor drinking tent) culture.

Address: Eulji-ro 3-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
Must-try: Nogari, Various Korean bar snacks

6. Jangchung-dong Jokbal - Pork Lovers' Paradise

Jokbal (braised pork feet) might sound unusual, but it's a hit among Japanese tourists. The tender meat and various wrapping vegetables create a delicious harmony of flavors and textures.

Address: 7 Dongho-ro 24-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Must-try: Jokbal, Bossam (boiled pork wraps)

7. Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town - Spicy Rice Cake Heaven

For those craving a spicy kick, Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town is a must-visit. Japanese tourists love trying different varieties of tteokbokki, from the classic red sauce to more unique flavors. Don't forget to order some crispy fried foods to complement the spiciness!

Address: Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul
Must-try: Various tteokbokki styles, Fried snacks

8. Samcheong-dong Sujebi - Comforting Korean Cuisine

This restaurant offers a taste of homestyle Korean cooking that Japanese visitors find both comforting and healthy. The hand-torn noodle soup (sujebi) and kalguksu are perfect for a chilly day or when you're craving something light and nourishing.

Address: 101-1 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Must-try: Sujebi, Kalguksu

9. Gwanghwamun Gomtang - Rich and Hearty Beef Soup

Japanese tourists often seek out this restaurant for its deeply flavored beef bone soup. Gomtang is considered a healthy and rejuvenating dish, perfect for recovering from a long day of sightseeing or shopping.

Address: 34 Sajik-ro 8-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Must-try: Gomtang, Suyuk (boiled beef)

10. Itaewon Gyeongnidan-gil Brunch Cafes - Trendy Cafe Culture

For a taste of Seoul's trendy cafe scene, Japanese visitors love exploring the brunch spots along Gyeongnidan-gil in Itaewon. These cafes offer a perfect blend of Korean and Western flavors, with Instagram-worthy presentations that appeal to young Japanese travelers.

Address: Gyeongnidan-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Must-try: Various brunch menus, Specialty coffee

Whether you're craving traditional Korean flavors or looking to explore the latest food trends, these restaurants offer something for every Japanese visitor. Don't forget to share your culinary adventures on social media using hashtags like #KoreanFood #JapaneseFavorites #SeoulEats to inspire fellow travelers!

Remember to check operating hours and make reservations when possible, as these popular spots can get busy. Happy eating, and enjoy your foodie journey through Korea!